Arsenal delivered a stunning 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby, with midfielder Eberechi Eze producing a sensational hat-trick that sent the Gunners six points clear at the top of the Premier League table.

The Emirates Stadium witnessed a complete demolition of Spurs as Mikel Arteta’s side dominated from start to finish, leaving manager Thomas Frank’s men struggling to make an impact.

First-Half Domination

The opening 45 minutes saw Arsenal take control, with Leandro Trossard and Eze finding the net to give the Gunners a comfortable lead. Eze, who had turned down Tottenham in the close season to join Arsenal for a reported £60 million ($78m), showcased his flair and precision in front of goal.

Trossard’s opener came in the 36th minute when Mikel Merino, filling in as Arsenal’s makeshift striker, delivered a sublime pass over the Spurs defense. Trossard capitalized on a defensive lapse by Kevin Danso to slot home from close range.

Eze doubled Arsenal’s advantage just five minutes later, weaving through the Spurs defense after receiving Declan Rice’s pass, and finishing with a low, precise strike past goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.

Second-Half Brilliance

Tottenham briefly threatened in the second half when Richarlison scored a spectacular 35-yard goal in the 55th minute, but it was a mere consolation. Arsenal’s dominance was evident as Eze struck twice more—just 35 seconds after the restart and again in the 76th minute—completing a memorable North London derby hat-trick.

“I am grateful for this. I have worked hard for this. That was the prayer today, for a hat-trick,” Eze told Sky Sports after the game. “All my family is here. It makes it even more special.”

The hat-trick marked only the fourth in North London derby history, following legends Ted Drake, Terry Dyson, and Alan Sunderland, the last of whom achieved the feat in 1978.

Tactical Overview

Despite missing key defender Gabriel Magalhaes and striker Viktor Gyokeres, Arsenal’s fluid attacking play and structured midfield ensured Spurs were rarely able to create chances. Mikel Merino’s versatility allowed him to drop deeper and orchestrate attacks, setting up Trossard and linking play effectively.

Tottenham, who entered the match with the best away record in the league, were unable to break Arsenal’s rhythm. Manager Thomas Frank’s introduction of Xavi Simons failed to alter the match’s course, highlighting questions over his tactical approach and defensive rigidity.

Implications for the Premier League Title Race

The victory extends Arsenal’s unbeaten run in all competitions to 15 games and keeps their momentum ahead of crucial fixtures, including a Champions League clash with Bayern Munich and a Premier League trip to second-placed Chelsea.

With rivals Manchester City falling 2-1 at Newcastle and Liverpool in turmoil, Arsenal have a golden opportunity to push for their first English league title since 2004.

Arteta’s side now boasts a ten-match winning streak in the Premier League, asserting their dominance in the capital and reinforcing their credentials as genuine title contenders.

Players’ Reactions

Tottenham goalkeeper Vicario admitted the team fell short in effort and cohesion.

“We need to fight every day, and fight every duel. Today, we didn’t show it,” he said.

Meanwhile, Eze’s performance has further cemented his reputation as one of England’s brightest talents, capable of turning matches single-handedly and making an immediate impact at Arsenal.